A Graduate Laboratory Experiment to Set Up a Photon-Counting Detector Using MKIDs

This paper presents a new laboratory activity aimed at developing knowledge and expertise in microwave applications at cryogenic temperatures. The experience focuses on the detection of infrared photons through Microwave Kinetic Inductance Detectors (MKIDs). The experimental setup, theoretical concepts, and activities involved are detailed, highlighting the skills and knowledge gained through the experience. This experiment is designed for graduate students in the field of quantum technologies.